This Gorgeous State Park in the Midwest Is Called the ‘Little Smokies’—How to Visit

While national parks have a lot of name recognition, some of the country’s most beautiful sights and natural wonders are hidden in state parks. Brown County State Park, Indiana. Located just outside the Indiana city of Nashville in the south half of Indiana, Brown County State Park is filled with outdoor adventures and stunning views. The often foggy forests, hills and valleys have earned a nickname, “Little Smokies,” which compares them to the popular Smoky Mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park North Carolina, Tennessee and Tennessee.

Scott Crossley is the property manager of the park. He tells us that “first-time visitors are often surprised by the size of Brown County at almost 16000 acres.” Travel + Leisure. The park features 26 miles (40 km) of roads, and 17 scenic views that provide a bird’s eye view of forest below. While Great Smoky Mountains National Park is significantly larger—covering more than half a million acres—Brown County State Park is similar in the fact that it’s a hub for recreation. From hiking and mountain bicycling to fishing and wildlife viewing, visitors can take part in a wide range of activities. 

Crossley offers some advice on how to make the most of your time at the park. He starts with proper preparation. Download one of the trail applications like Trailforks The following are some examples of how to use AllTrails Arrive before you leave. He says that there is limited cell service within the park. This can make it hard to use maps when hiking. “I use Trailforks as it is not dependent on internet or cell service once it has been downloaded.”

Remember that Brown County State Park has timber rattlesnakes. endangered species in Indiana. They can be large snakes but are not aggressive. If they feel threatened, they will rattle to warn you. They will not bite you as long you keep a safe distance. We have never had anyone get bitten by one.

To plan your visit to Indiana’s Brown County State Park, keep this information in mind.

The Best Things to do

Brown County State Park in California is a large park with a lot to offer, whether you are a regular visitor or not. “One of Brown County State Park’s most impressive attractions is Hesitation Point. Crossley describes this as our largest vista. It offers a wide-ranging panoramic view to the north end of the park, and beyond. You can climb the 90-foot fire tower to get even more spectacular views.

He adds, “We have some unique structures that were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps ),'”. Visitors should take a look at the large two-story stone shelter that hosts weddings all year round. Other CCC structures still present in the park are the North and West Lookout Towers as well as the Upper Shelter and West Gate.

In addition to the photo opportunities and architectural interest, there are more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails. We have some of Midwest’s best mountain biking trails. Crossley says the trails range from beginner to expert. “We have trails for every level of rider,” he adds. Brown County Saddle Barn can offer guided horseback rides or horseback riding for those who are interested.

Before setting off on a grand hiking adventure—more on that below—be sure to stop in the park’s nature center to learn more about the area’s history and see some of the local reptiles. Crossley suggests that you check out the daily programs led by our interpretive staff. 

Best Hikes

Crossley has a list of top hikes for all levels of adventurers at Brown County State Park. Trail 7He claims that it is a popular trail among tourists. “The trail stays near Ogle Lake. You can see some waterbirds and turtles when you hike. This trail is moderately rated and about 1.5 miles in distance. “For the more adventurous hiker, this trail can also be connected to Trail 11.” He told T+L.

There are also a number of other options that are shorter, such as the rugged Trail 5 It is less than a mile. “This trail begins with a straight descent down a series stairways and enters Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve. As you descend into the nature reserve, it becomes very humid and cool. He says that this is one of only a few places in the world where you can find the rare yellowwood. 

We also have a short paved path next to the office of the park called the Friend’s Trail“, he says. It’s a trail that is accessible and was funded by the Friends of Brown County State Park. The trail is less that a mile long, and it features a scenic overlook perfect for taking photographs.”

Do your research before you go hiking in Brown County State Park. “Many of the trails in Brown County State Park are steep and rugged. While hiking, you will encounter many insects and ticks. When hiking, wear a good hat. good hiking shoes Crossley advises to wear socks and tuck in your pants so that ticks cannot crawl up your body. Crossley warns: “Come prepared. good tick repellent Make sure you apply DEET in large quantities. Each year we have several hikers who don’t bring enough water. “It’s a good idea to always have plenty of drinking water with you, especially during hot weather.”

When is the best time to visit?

Brown County State Park in the Fall is like the Smokies. The park and area are most popular in October. The Midwest attracts visitors from across the country to the beautiful fall colorsCrossley says. He also recommends the spring “when the wildflowers and creeks are in bloom.” The time of the year is best to see the topography before the vegetation has covered the hills.

How to get there

Brown County State Park lies about an hours south of Indianapolis. If you’re planning to visit it, it is possible to do so as a day-trip from Indy. Another option would be for you stay in the park. Abe Martin Lodge Camp. The lodge features an indoor waterpark, an on-site dining establishment (The Little Gem), as well as a range of accommodation options, from classic rooms and family cabins to rustic cabins for the season and rustic cabins for seasonal use.

If you want to go even deeper into nature, there are many options available. reserve a campsite. Crossley says that Indiana State Parks has one of the best campground systems. “We offer camping for horseback rider only, family camping, rally or group camping, as well as camping for horseback-riders.” Buffalo Ridge, and Taylor Ridge are the names of two family campgrounds. He says that Taylor Ridge is about five miles long and has all the campsites on the ridgetops.